Nine In Ten UK Consumers Have Security Concerns Around Connected Cars

Thales, a leader in critical information systems, cybersecurity and data security, announces new research revealing the security concerns UK consumers associate with connected devices, including cars.

Surveying 1,000 consumers across the US and UK, the findings show that over half of Brits now own at least one internet-connected device, with wearable fitness trackers (24%), vehicles (18%) and smartwatches (16%) being the most common.

Consumer considerations

When asked to identify internet-connected devices which were most vulnerable to hacking, cars with integrated Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology came second only to home security cameras and video-enabled doorbells. 60% of respondents felt that connected cars posed security concerns. Integrity and malfunctions of connected car technology topped the list of apprehensions. Over 50% expressed concerns around viruses or malware and almost 40% claimed data security features would be the most important thing to consider when purchasing a connected vehicle. To combat these concerns, an overwhelming majority of respondents (92%) felt the government should implement stricter data security regulations for connected cars.

John Grimm, senior directory security strategy, Thales eSecurity says:“As adoption of connected cars and development of autonomous, self-driving cars soars, there is a tremendous business opportunity for automakers. However, with more connectivity comes new pathways for cyberattacks and our research shows that 60% of UK respondents are more concerned about the security of connected cars now vs. 5 years ago. While we’re starting to see IoT and connected car regulatory frameworks in the UK, manufacturers across the world should proactively consider these consumer concerns as they get ready to bring these cars to our streets instead of waiting for laws and regulations to pass.”

Cars aren’t the only concern

When it comes to concerns about potential breaches, 65% of UK consumers believe devices like home security cameras and video doorbells are internet-connected technologies that are also extremely vulnerable. Those seen as least vulnerable are connected lightbulbs, such as Philips Hue, with only 10% of respondents viewing them as a threat. Other devices considered to be at risk of security issues include virtual personal assistants, such as Amazon Echo (54%), smartwatches, such as the Apple watch (35%), and medical monitoring devices, such as glucose meter remotes (23%).

MethodologyThis survey was conducted by Wakefield Research among 1,000 nationally representative adults ages 18 and older in the U.S. and U.K., between August 31st and 7th September, 2017, using an email invitation and an online poll. Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results.

About Thales

Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace, Transport, Defence and Security markets. With 61,000 employees in 56 countries, Thales reported sales of €13 billion in 2014. With over 20,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design and deploy equipment, systems and services to meet the most complex security requirements. Its unique international footprint allows it to work closely with its customers all over the world.
Positioned as a value-added systems integrator, equipment supplier and service provider, Thales is one of Europe’s leading players in the security market. The Group’s security teams work with government agencies, local authorities and enterprise customers to develop and deploy integrated, resilient solutions to protect citizens, sensitive data and critical infrastructure.
Drawing on its strong cryptographic capabilities, Thales is one of the world leaders in cybersecurity products and solutions for critical state and military infrastructures, satellite networks and industrial and financial companies. With a presence throughout the entire security chain, Thales offers a comprehensive range of services and solutions ranging from security consulting, intrusion detection and architecture design to system certification, development and through-life management of products and services, and security supervision with Security Operation Centres in France, the United Kingdom and The Netherlands.